Different Credit Files / Different CRA

bubby08

Hello, I have done exaustive reading on this forum, (thanks for all those who contribute) regarding Credit Score and CRAs so I will try not to ask about CS as I know some people feel quite strongly that they dont actual exist. So I will stick to my actual report. I have discovered I have different credit file with equifax with experian. Experian shows accounts and credit that my equifax one doesnt. the account in question doesnt belong to me and is old and closed but also negative however it doesnt appear on my equifax report. I have already contacted experian and now waitng for their response. However I was wondering why when it shouldnt be there, it would show on one and not the other.
Best Regards

[Deleted User]

It's quite straightforward.  It's because different lenders report to - and check - different CRAs.

You'll most likely find TransUnion to also be different.

bubby08

thank you zx81 so ignoring the credit score which as we mentioned may not exist, the fact that this account isnt present on one file and not the other  would suggest my credit worthyness is far better with those lenders that report to Equifax? Doesnt that defeat the object?

Best Regards

[Deleted User]

If only one file shows negative data, then yes, you may be better off applying to lenders who use another, all things being equal.

However larger lenders will be checking more than one.

DCFC79

Its up to the lender which reporting agench they use, as Ive said before on another thread you would think all 3 would be checked/used.

Thrre is a list on here of who uses which agency.

cymruchris

There are times when a finance company will use 1 x CRA - and that same company might at other times use 3 x CRA - it all depends on your risk profile as a customer. Don't rely on the fact that a company is reported to ONLY use XYZ CRA - they might run further checks through the others if you're a borderline application. 

 

Better to continue what your doing - report the irregularity, get it investigated, and if it's truly not your account get it removed. Once the CRA file has been updated, it'll disappear from the history.

If you're considering a large finance project or a mortgage - it might be better to wait for the investigation to be completed, and the erroneous inserts removed.

bubby08

thank you so much everyone, 

For my reference can any point me in the direction of the list of CRA for each lender?

Best Regards

[Deleted User]

No, as it constantly changes.  There is one on the site here, but it's not at all reliable.

bubby08

Ok many thanks